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HATE SPEECH

How can journalists determine what is hate speech? In a world plagued by censorship, press freedom violations and propaganda it is difficult for reporters to judge what type of rhetoric is acceptable and what is intolerable. Currently there is no accepted international definition of hate speech and the levels of tolerance vary dramatically from country to country.

The below infographic helps journalists navigate through this minefield and take into consideration the wider context in which people express themselves. They must focus not just on what is said, but what is intended. It’s not just a matter of law or socially acceptable behaviour; it’s a question of whether speech aims to do others harm, particularly at moments when there is the threat of immediate violence. The full “Hate Speech: A Five Point Test For Journalists” can be found at this link.